Here’s how I’d break it down, especially if you’ve got tickets or an accident on your record (like me): 1) Get quotes from both—sometimes Progressive is way cheaper for “risky” drivers, sometimes Geico is. 2) Actually call and ask about what happens if you need OEM parts on an older car. 3) Read the fine print, because both will try to sneak in weird fees. I’ve had Progressive jack up my rate mid-policy, but at least they didn’t fight me on a claim. Neither is perfect, but for beat-up cars and not-so-perfect records, Progressive’s usually less of a headache.
I had a pretty similar debate a few years back. My driving record isn’t spotless either (thanks, NYC traffic cameras), and I bounced between Geico and Progressive for a bit. I totally get what you mean about weird fees. Geico once charged me a “policy processing” fee that came out of nowhere—felt like they just made it up.
About this part:
I’ve had Progressive jack up my rate mid-policy, but at least they didn’t fight me on a claim.
That’s actually what made me stick with Progressive for a while. I had a minor fender bender—nothing wild, but enough to require some new parts. Progressive didn’t hassle me, and the process was smoother than I expected. The rate hike stung, but I’ve heard Geico can be even stricter if you file a claim, especially after an accident.
OEM parts on an older car is a good call-out too. I had to really push both companies to explain what they’d actually cover. Neither gave a straight answer, but Progressive at least didn’t sound annoyed with my questions.
Honestly, in NY, it feels like you’re picking the lesser evil. I still shop around every renewal just in case.
I’ve been going back and forth between these two for a while, too. I’m still on my first policy, and I swear I read every line twice because I’m paranoid about surprise charges. Geico quoted me lower at first, but then the “fees” started popping up. Progressive’s rate hikes freak me out, but at least when I called with a bunch of newbie questions, they didn’t make me feel dumb. I had to ask about OEM parts too—felt like pulling teeth. In NYC, I just want someone who won’t leave me stranded if I mess up, honestly.
Man, I feel you on the paranoia—NYC insurance is wild. I’ve had a couple tickets and Geico’s “low” quote shot up fast once they saw my record. Did Progressive actually break down what their rate hikes were for, or was it just random increases?
Did Progressive actually break down what their rate hikes were for, or was it just random increases?
That’s exactly what gets me—sometimes it feels like they just spin a wheel and tack on another $40 for fun. I’ve noticed with Progressive, they’ll list “rate revision” or “statewide adjustment,” but it’s never super clear. Last year my premium jumped mid-policy and when I called, they blamed “market conditions” and rising claims in my area. No tickets, no accidents, just… NYC chaos, I guess.
Did Geico ever give you a straight answer about the spike after your tickets? I always wonder if it’s better to just call and haggle or if that’s a waste of time. Also, have you tried any of those smaller companies? Sometimes I see ads for NY-only insurers but never know if they’re legit or just a hassle.
